Frankenmuth, Mich.: 8 U.S. towns with a Bavarian twist

8 U.S. towns with a Bavarian twist

Frankenmuth, Mich.

Located in Central Michigan, Frankenmuth was settled by immigrants from what is now Bavaria in the mid-19th century. Nearby towns, all of which start with “Franken-” (a nod to the Bavarian province that many of the founding residents came from), show this region's European roots. The Bavarian Festival, a huge celebration of German culture, draws nearly 100,000 attendees every summer. Bavarian architecture, including a traditional covered bridge, is still a part of the town's landscape. With a massive year-round "Christmas superstore," breweries, authentic German bakeries and bed-and-breakfasts, this is a perfect destination for people who want to experience the best of Bavaria without crossing the Atlantic.